STEM Skills and Connections
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) skills and connections are integrated into all units in the course. Through scientific research, experimentation, and engineering design processes, students will conduct investigations, design solutions to problems, and communicate findings while discovering practical applications that pertain to science and technology. Students will make practical connections between the knowledge students gain and real-world issues in science and technology. Students will also analyse the contributions made by First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities as their knowledge has led to the creation of Indigenous scientific and technical systems.
Growth and Changes in Plants
In the Growth and Changes in Plants unit, students will learn about plants. They will investigate various plants and their parts. They will describe the basic needs of plants and identify major parts of plants. These parts will change when plants grow. They will explore how plants need energy to grow and adapt. They will also learn where plants get this energy and how plants and animals depend on each other. Finally, students will learn how plants are important for humans. They will assess the impact human activities have on plants.
Strong and Stable Structures
In the Strong and Stable Structures unit, students will learn about structures and forces. They will explore how structures support and hold a load. They will investigate what materials can help make a structure stable and strong. In the investigations, students will use different materials and techniques to support a load. Then, they will explore how human-built structures impact the environment.
Forces Causing Movement
In the Forces Causing Movement unit, students will learn about forces and devices that create movement. They will identify the types of forces and how they can cause movement. They will investigate how forces cause movement. This movement can be exerted through direct contact or from a distance. Students will assess which forces are used in daily life, as well as investigate the impact of safety devices. Finally, they will assess the effects of forces in nature.
Soils in the Environment
In the Soils in the Environment unit, students will learn about soil types. They will explore where to find different types of soils and their components. They will learn how soil components can provide a variety of nutrients and minerals for living things. They will also learn that soil needs both living and non-living things to remain healthy. They will investigate composting. Students will also assess the impacts of soil on society and the environment.
